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Archive

Note: In October of 2005, the Investment Law and Policy News Bulletin was rebranded as Investment Treaty News (ITN). This archive contains past editions of the earlier News Bulletin, as well as more recent editions of ITN.

February, 2008

• February 21, 2008 (PDF - 59 kb)
  In this issue: Yemen found to have breached BIT in dispute with Omani construction company; Blocked eco-tourism project in Costa Rica parkland leads to BIT arbitration; Tribunal appointed to hear NAFTA claim over thwarted garbage site in Canada; Tribunal selected in German firm's arbitration over Ghanaian cocoa processor; US investor threatens Canada over quarry project rejected on environmental grounds; Zurich event to discuss investment treaty arbitration on March 7; British Institute to host annual London conference on investment treaty law on May 9.

• February 5, 2008 (PDF - 39 kb)
  In this issue: MFN clause used successfully in bid by minority Yukos shareholders to sue Russia; ANALYSIS: RosInvest ruling adds to muddy picture of MFN's effect on arbitration; Ecuador will denounce at least nine bilateral investment treaties; UNCITRAL Working Group meets as investor-state questions loom; Argentine challenge to arbitrator in National Grid case is rejected in reasoned decision; NAFTA tribunal declines jurisdiction in Canadian cattle ranchers' dispute with the US; Investment treaties touted as alternative to WTO in on-line gambling dispute; Poland says talks progressing with Eureko as arbitration damages phase continues; Investmentclaims.com re-launches under Oxford banner.

January, 2008

• January 17, 2008 (PDF - 59 kb)
  In this issue: ICSID annulment committee will not require Argentina to post bond in Azurix case; Czech Republic quietly pursues challenge to jurisdictional ruling in Prague court; BIT claim against Thailand clears initial jurisdictional hurdles; Austrian cement company's BIT arbitration with Bosnia is settled; Campaigners deliver letter to ICSID over Euro Telecom vs. Bolivia arbitration; Turkish telecoms company initiates BIT claim against Iran; Interpreting narrowly-worded arbitration clauses in Soviet-era and Chinese BITs; Canadian Minister hopes China BIT is months away, with Mongolia pact to follow; Cases where MFN arguments have led to more favourable arbitration options.

• January 11, 2008 (PDF - 70 kb)
  In this issue: Tanzania declares victory in contractual dispute with water services company; Award in Berschader v. Russia BIT arbitration is finally made available to public; Majority frowns on using MFN clause to obtain wider arbitration options; CMS Energy urges Argentina to pay ICSID award; Activists lobby in support of Bolivia's withdrawal from ICSID; Argentina seeks to annul Vivendi award in decade-long water privatization dispute; German and Finnish investors prevail in banking dispute with Estonia; Claim against Venezuela dismissed amidst questions about authenticity of bonds.

December, 2007

• December 14, 2007 (PDF - 40 kb)
  In this issue: ITN Year in Review for 2006 finds non-ICSID treaty arbitrations eclipse ICSID cases; US investors prevail in High Fructose Corn Syrup dispute with Mexico; ICSID rejects US challenge to arbitrator in Grand River NAFTA case; UK court declines to overturn jurisdiction in Czech TV broadcasting arbitration; Fraport to annul ICSID award which held its investments in Philippines to be illegal; U.S. oil companies challenge Canada's demands for R&D spending under NAFTA; Tribunal orders Ecuador to cease legal action against foreign oil company; Lecture on "state corruption in international arbitration" at Cambridge University.

November, 2007

• November 30, 2007 (PDF - 40 kb)
  In this issue: More details emerge of miner's case against South Africa; EU envoy says Malaysian race-based affirmative action policies hindering trade talks; Argentina fails in bid to have arbitrator removed from water services arbitrations; Ecuador wants ICSID to stop presiding over mining and energy arbitrations; SGS v. Philippines case at ICSID stirs, as new case filed against Paraguay; Dutch company pursuing treaty claim against Kazakhstan; BIICL event in January to focus on domestic review of BIT awards.

• November 15, 2007 (PDF - 57 kb)
  In this issue: ICSID registers arbitration claim in face of Bolivian objections; Belgian Appeals Court rejects Poland's challenge to Arbitrator in Eureko case; Venezuela mining case resumes after withdrawal of two tribunal members; US persists with challenge to arbitrator in Grand River Enterprises NAFTA case; arbitrator's human rights work assisting Native Americans in spotlight; American investors threaten NAFTA suit over Canadian taxes to income trusts; Eastern Sugar v. Czech Republic award now available on-line; Recently published articles and papers on bilateral investment treaties; British Institute to host seminar on State Responsibility and Investment Arbitration.

October, 2007

• October 30, 2007 (PDF - 40 kb)
  In this issue: Hearings on the merits commence in Zimbabwe arbitration with Dutch farmers; Argentina and UK firm send arbitrator-challenge to venue where reasons are provided; Czech Gov't seeks to annul jurisdiction ruling in UNCITRAL broadcasting dispute; Vivendi-Poland UNCITRAL arbitration goes forward quietly as tribunal is constituted; European treaty may revive debate over power to conclude investment agreements; Peru-US trade and investment pact moving towards approval by US Senate and House; ICSID tribunal rejects Enron's request for post-award interest.

• October 15, 2007 (PDF - 56 kb)
  In this issue: Argentina and its defence of necessity in the face of financial crisis claims; Argentina must respect award despite ICSID finding that it has errors of law; Argentina liable for breaches of US-Argentina BIT in claim by US gas co. Sempra; latest award to be rendered in spate of financial crisis claims by foreign investors; UK salvaging firm moves to annul ICSID award: Arbitrator had denied jurisdiction due to contract not making significant contribution to Malaysia economic development; ANALYSIS: Tribunals differ as to whether ICSID system imposes its own (more stringent) definition of "investment"; New arbitrator appointed in Menatep-Russia arbitration over Yukos oil corp; Texans turn to Ontario Court in effort to overturn unfavourable NAFTA ruling in water dispute with Mexico: arbitrators had insisted on need for cross-border investments; Colombian court upholds constitutionality of BIT with Spain; Ecuador reportedly wants oil and mining disputes barred from ICSID; Costa Ricans narrowly vote in favour of CAFTA-DR pact with United States; Canada seeks comments on initial enviro assessment of Korea FTA.

September, 2007

• September 28, 2007 (PDF - 58 kb)
  In this issue: Umbrella clause reasoning annulled in CMS-Argentina case, remainder upheld; Divided panel declines to annul ICSID award in Peruvian environmental dispute; Lithuania victorious in dispute with Norwegian parking lot business; ANALYSIS: Archaeological and environmental differences distinguish FDI projects; Tribunal chosen in arbitration over South African Black Empowerment policies; Award finally published in NAFTA's first financial services investor-state arbitration; US Oil Companies signal intention to sue Canada over local content requirements; Governments did not discuss special investor-state rules at UNCITRAL meeting; Looming Exxon arbitration with Venezuela garners extensive media interest.

• September 7, 2007 (PDF - 51 kb)
  In this issue: Hearings set in Canadian cattle ranchers' claim against US over mad cow ban; Analysis: Ranchers insist cross-border investment not needed under NAFTA Ch.11; NGOs call for transparency as UNCITRAL governments meet in Vienna; US railway investor's claim against Guatemala tests CAFTA transparency provisions; Kaliningrad regional government sues Lithuania under Russian BIT; Tribunal constituted in Merrill & Ring v. Canada NAFTA Chapter 11 claim; Repsol threatens Algeria with BIT suit, as contractual proceeding gets under way.

August, 2007

• August 30, 2007 (PDF - 67 kb)
  In this issue: Argentina liable for $100+ Million after expropriating Vivendi water concession; Divided ICSID panel declines jurisdiction over Philippines airport terminal case; Majority declines jurisdiction over Spanish investor's fishing claim against Chile; Greek construction company takes Albania to ICSID over Pyramids' crisis; Failed hotel deal in the Ukraine leads to ICSID arbitration; Canada-India investment agreement under wraps due to outstanding issues; Tribunal constituted in UNCITRAL arbitration over Czech banking dispute.

• August 10, 2007 (PDF - 46 kb)
  In this issue: Ukraine prevails as arbitration tribunal splits over lawsuit by publisher; ICSID has jurisdiction in Energy Charter case against Georgia, as second claim arises; ANALYSIS: Tribunal's ruling in Georgia case could resonate in Yukos-Russia dispute; ICSID tribunal rejects claims of treaty breach by Ecuador in US power case; Canadian softwood firm must pay all US legal costs associated with NAFTA claim; US investor, S&T Oil Equipment & Machinery, sues Romania over seizure of assets; Investment Treaty Forum seeks new Senior Research Fellow.

July, 2007

• July 31, 2007 (PDF - 52 kb)
  In this issue: Argentina ordered to pay $57.4 Million to US-based LG&E for BIT breaches; Hearings in Glamis v. USA arbitration slated for August 12-17 and open to the public; Tribunal rejects demand by Argentine court to suspend ongoing arbitration; Canadian Supreme Court declines to hear challenge to NAFTA Chapter 11; US federal court rules on arbitrator conflicts of interest; Holders of Argentine bonds laud US government's statement on outstanding debt.

• July 12, 2007 (PDF - 63 kb)
  In this issue: Egypt prevails for second time in recent months in an ICSID arbitration; ICSID annulment committee splits, but award in Soufraki v. UAE is upheld; UK Court rejects Ecuador's bid to overturn $71 Mil Occidental Award; New York Court rules against Chevron in environmental dispute with Ecuador; German nationals challenge Namibia's land reform as discriminatory; NAFTA Tribunal lacks jurisdiction to hear Texans' water dispute with Mexico; Canadian uranium miner sues Kazakhstan under Foreign Investment Law.

June, 2007

• June 30, 2007 (PDF - 42 kb)
  In this issue: Underwater salvaging firm fails "investment" test in ICSID case against Malaysia; Recently published UPS v. Canada decisions reveal arbitrator divergences over NT; UPS arbitrators differ on reading of cultural industries exclusion in NAFTA; EU members review intra-European BITs in light of potential overlap with EU Law.

• June 13, 2007 (PDF - 63 kb)
  In this issue: Canada prevails in UPS arbitration, as tribunal splits over NAFTA Ch.11 breaches; ICSID rejects Argentina's bid to disqualify tribunal in Sempra/Camuzzi arbitration; Canada seeks public feedback on its environmental review of India investment treaty; Tribunal selected to hear chemical company's claim against Canadian ban on Lindane; Poland embroiled in new arbitration over privatization reversal; ICJ has jurisdiction in Congo case, but rejects broad concept of diplomatic protection; US and Glamis Gold dig in for fight over definition of expropriation under NAFTA.

May, 2007

• May 27, 2007 (PDF - 60 kb)
  In this issue: Enron wins $106 Million (US) in financial crisis claim against Argentina; Tribunal splits on nationality arguments in Egypt resort property seizure case; Canadian softwood lumber firm files for NAFTA Chapter 11 arbitration against US; US investor files formal arbitration against Canada over thwarted garbage disposal site; French firm launches BIT arbitration against Paraguay over outstanding debt; Investors pursue arbitration over Dominican Republic electricity investments; Bolivia expounds on reasons for withdrawing from ICSID arbitration system.

• May 9, 2007 (PDF - 63 kb)
  In this issue: Bolivia notifies World Bank of withdrawal from ICSID, pursues BIT revisions; Ecuador announces that it wants out of US investment treaty; Argentina moves to disqualify tribunal in dispute over admitting earlier rulings; Shell drops ICSID suit against Nicaragua over seizure of trademarks; Dispossessed Dutch farmers continue to pursue arbitration over Zimbabwe losses; Canadians sue Costa Rica after controversial financial firm shut down by authorities.

April, 2007

• April 27, 2007 (PDF - 46 kb)
  In this issue: Spanish financial investors initiate arbitration against Russia over Yukos; Czech Rep and Hungary opposed to Canada's investor-state transparency demands; New BIT arbitration launched against Czech Republic over bank failure; Jurisdictional decision expected this year in ICJ dispute between Guinea and DRC; Second group of Italian bondholders sue Argentina at ICSID; Back-to-back events on investment treaty arbitration slated for May 17-18 in DC.

• April 13, 2007 (PDF - 66 kb)
  In this issue: Czech Republic loses BIT arbitration to sugar firm challenging quota allocation; Poland defending arbitration claim over agricultural quotas; NGOs file human rights brief in Suez-Vivendi water dispute with Argentina; France and England found liable in multi-million pound English Channel arbitration; US-South Korea investment rules give some shelter for SK real estate stabilization; ANALYSIS: Japan-Thailand investment rules form part of new economic agreement.

March, 2007

• March 27, 2007 (PDF - 37 kb)
  In this issue: NGOs submit legal brief in Biwater v. Tanzania arbitration; Ad-Hoc Committee declines to annul "extreme" reasoning in award against Chile; ICSID Jurisdiction affirmed as Italian firm accuses Bangladesh of frustrating ICC case; BIT claim against Vietnam settled on confidential terms; Briefing paper analyzes intellectual property provisions in investment treaties.

• March 16, 2007 (PDF - 41 kb)
  In this issue: Canada encountering static from negotiating partners over transparency demands; European Governments remain split over extent of investment provisions in EU FTAs; EU trade negotiations with India stumble over human rights, proliferation issues; European Governments defend BITs in lawsuit brought by EU Executive Branch; US Gold mining company alleges corruption & breach of BIT by Armenia; US investors in Guatemalan rail privatization give notice of CAFTA arbitration; Italian Government distancing itself from dispute between Italian miners and South Africa; American University in DC to host investment law and human rights workshop.

• March 2, 2007 (PDF - 50 kb)
  In this issue: Tribunal to permit NGO submission in Biwater-Tanzania water arbitration; NGOs to submit arguments in Suez/Vivendi/Aguas Barcelona dispute with Argentina; Investors eye legal options as Venezuela moves to control heavy oil projects; Chinese investor launches BIT claim against Peru at ICSID; Real estate policy becomes a sticking point in South Korea-US negotiations; U.S. District Court rejects Thunderbird petition to vacate NAFTA tribunal ruling; Investor challenges Ecuadorian windfall tax as breach of oil participation contract; Two new studies explore relationship between BITs and FDI.

February, 2007

• February 19, 2007 (PDF - 44 kb)
  In this issue: Argentina liable for $217 Million in investment treaty arbitration with Siemens; Analysis: Argentina liable for multiple treaty breaches in Siemens case; Analysis: Tribunal rejects bid for reduced compensation on social policy grounds.

• February 14, 2007 (PDF - 56 kb)
  In this issue: Clarification RE: Petrobart v Kyrgyzstan Energy Charter Treaty case; European mining investors mount arbitration over South African Black Empowerment; Analysis: South African arbitration may raise delicate human rights issues; US chemical firm pressing forward with NAFTA suit against Canada; Governments punt discussion of special UNCITRAL rules for investor-state disputes; Path cleared for Italian holders of Argentine bonds to sue Argentina at ICSID; China-Finland investment treaty points to new trend in Chinese BITs; British Institute to convene China investment law discussion in April.

• February 1, 2007 (PDF - 53 kb)
  In this issue: UNCITRAL Secretariat drafts revised arbitration rules as governments gather in NY; NGOs appeal to the United Nations after UNCITRAL observer status denied; Award handed down in Turkish power project dispute at ICSID; ICJ rejects Uruguay request for provisional measures in pulp mills dispute; Canadian firm gearing up for arbitration against Czech Republic; Arbitration claims withdrawn after Estonia pays to renationalize railway; Kyrgyzstan loses appeal of an Energy Charter award in Swedish courts; Helnan v. Egypt jurisdictional ruling now available in ITN documents centre; Journal devotes issue to investment and sustainable development.

January, 2007

• January 17, 2007 (PDF - 53 kb)
  In this issue: Challenge to Arbitrator Schwebel rejected by Belgian court, Poland seeks appeal; Analysis: Arbitrator challenges raising tough questions as to who resolves BIT cases; ICSID Tribunal rejects Egypt's objections to jurisdiction in Shepheard Hotel dispute; Stockholm Arbitration Institute issues revised arbitration rules; Dutch consulting firm K+ VP and the Czech Republic reach settlement.

December, 2006

• December 19, 2006 (PDF - 46 kb)
  In this issue: Tribunal declines jurisdiction over fraudulently made investment in El Salvador; Greek investor sues over mining operation in first known BIT case against Serbia; US makes last-minute filing in arbitration between Texan farmers and Mexico; Tribunal still deliberating in NAFTA dispute brought by UPS against Canada; New book on foreign investment protection in developing countries; Washington Conference on Energy Charter Treaty slated for May 2007.

• December 1, 2006 (PDF - 50 kb)
  In this issue: Investment Treaty News now available in Spanish; Belgian court declines Poland's request to annul award in insurance fight; Pakistan Attorney General advises states to scrutinize investment treaties carefully; Uruguay decries Argentine protestor blockades in pulp mills dispute; Egypt prevails in ICSID dispute with American investors over alleged discrimination; Czech Republic and Nomura Securities reach settlement; Iraq concludes foreign investment law and engages in economic talks with EU; IISD calls upon OECD to undertake further consultations on infrastructure rules.

November 2006

• November 24, 2006 (PDF - 41 kb)
  In this issue: ICSID award against Democratic Republic of Congo annulled; ICSID arbitration over Zimbabwe land reform moving forward; International Court of Justice to hear rare diplomatic protection case; Tribunal constituted in UNCITRAL BIT case between Mittal Steel and Czech Rep; Austrian investors eye arbitration with Slovakia over failed airport deal.

• November 15, 2006 (PDF - 57 kb)
  In this issue: US investor notifies Canada of potential arbitration over thwarted waste site; Wave of new third party submissions in Glamis Gold arbitration with USA; Italian firm resorts to arbitration over cancellation of Venezuelan energy contract; Bangladesh wrestles with various foreign investment disputes; EU Governments debate Euro Commission's investment negotiating ideas; Canada and Peru sign bilateral investment treaty and release text; Ecuador targeted for arbitration by Spanish firm; UNCTAD offers data on entry into force of BITs; Award in Telenor v. Hungary arbitration now available on-line.

• November 2, 2006 (PDF - 51 kb)
  In this issue: Cyprus-based companies recoup $75 Mil in BIT arbitration over Hungary airport; UK Court of Appeal to hear challenge by Ecuador to Oxy award on January 29; ICSID tribunal can hear dispute between French energy firm Total and Argentina; Mexico and Spain revise Bilateral Investment Treaty; U.S. lumber firm Merrill & Ring notifies Canada of NAFTA suit over log exports; OECD unveils latest initiative: draft principles to govern infrastructure investment; British Institute plans January event on Russia and Energy Charter.

October 2006

• October 19, 2006 (PDF - 61 kb)
  In this issue: ICSID Tribunal issues ruling on confidentiality in Tanzanian water concession dispute; Challenge to Eureko award and challenge to arbitrator both pending in Belgian courts; Bolivia tables new contracts to energy firms as deadline for "migration" looms; Argentina asks ICSID for the removal of lead arbitrator in Asset Recovery Trust case; UNCTAD Releases World Investment Report, as number of BITs exceeds 2500; ICSID/ICC/AAA to host Arbitration Colloquium in DC on November 17.

• October 13, 2006 (PDF - 73 kb)
  In this issue: UNCITRAL holds first meeting on revisions to its rules of arbitration; Environmental NGOs push for special UNCITRAL rules for investor-state disputes; US investor invokes BIT to sue Ukraine over broadcasting quotas and licensing; Shell launches claim against Nicaragua over seizure of intellectual property; More Spanish portfolio investors line up to sue Russia over Yukos; Enron looking to sell Azurix arbitration award ; Yearbook of Int'l Environmental Law to devote special edition to investment law.

• October 5, 2006 (PDF - 28 kb)
  In this issue: Tribunal holds Argentina liable for BIT breaches, but accepts necessity plea in part.

September 2006

• September 20, 2006 (PDF - 71 kb)
  In this issue: Clarification as to Possible Revision of UNCITRAL Arbitration Rules; Hungary prevails in ICSID arbitration with Norwegian telecoms firm; Argentina permitted to challenge ICSID award without posting security; Italian holders of Argentine bonds mount $3.6 Billion claim at ICSID; ICSID tribunal affirms jurisdiction over Chilean investors' dispute with Argentina; Japan and Philippines leave investor-state arbitration mechanism unresolved in EPA; Human Rights Watch warns Indonesia and foreign investors on forced evictions; US Senate OKs investment treaty with Uruguay

August 2006

• August 23, 2006 (PDF - 60 kb)
  In this issue: Russia prevails in Stockholm arbitration with Belgian construction firm owners; Tribunal affirms jurisdiction and treaty-shopping in Buenos Aires water dispute; Tribunal affirms jurisdiction and treaty shopping in Argentine electricity case; French investor criticizes governments' handling of Cambodian dispute; South African opposition complains about delay in signing SA-Zimbabwe BIT; OECD addresses multinationals investing in countries with weak governments.

• August 10, 2006 (PDF - 76 kb)
  In this issue: Existence of 'umbrella' clause denied by tribunal in US-Argentina BIT dispute; Foreign investors allege expropriation in multiple new arbitrations with Azerbaijan; Canadian miner may sue Bulgaria in dispute over environmental impact assessment; Despite time-bar ruling in NAFTA arbitration, Grand River claim will proceed in part; UNCTAD reports on investment provisions in economic integration agreements; London workshop to examine procedural aspects of investment treaty arbitration.

July 2006

• July 26, 2006 (PDF - 66 kb)
  In this issue: Azurix wins claim against Argentina, recoups a portion of its sunk costs; Analysis: tribunal finds several treaty breaches in Argentine treatment of water firm; British mining company serves notice of arbitration on Kyrgyzstan as dispute heats up; Chevron warns Ecuador on BIT claim as contract and environmental disputes persist; Mexico prevails in NAFTA Chapter 11 arbitration over financial services.

• July 19, 2006 (PDF - 77 kb)
  In this issue: Argentina liable for breaches of US-Argentina BIT in dispute with US water firm; Spanish fund to open new front in arbitration against Russia over Yukos; UNCITRAL to review arbitral rules, greater transparency not on the agenda; Argentina persists with challenges to arbitrators in BIT cases; Conciliation of international investment disputes remains under-utilized; European Commission makes another play for power to negotiate investment pacts; Canada schedules consultation on FIPAs, identifies priority countries; Norwegian fish company sues Czech Republic under BIT.

• July 4, 2006 (PDF - 67 kb)
  In this issue: Belgian Court ruling postpones challenge to Eureko arbitrator for six months; Tanzania wants open hearings in BIT arbitration over water concession; Tribunal will hear BIT arbitration over Suez Canal dredging; Ukraine reaches settlement in BIT claim by US-govt venture capital fund; Lawyer says risk insurance claims may be alternative to BIT arbitration in Bolivia; Cemex looks to exit Indonesia, ICSID arbitration continues for the time being; China and Australia seek ambitious investment agreement through an FTA.

June 2006

• June 15, 2006 (PDF - 57 kb)
  In this issue: Jurisdiction upheld in El Paso v. Argentina, as thorny interpretive issues explored; Analysis: Tribunal stirs up storm with 'umbrella' clause ruling; Tribunal allows NAFTA investment arbitration in softwood case to proceed in part; Tembec trying to overturn softwood consolidation order in US courts; First hearings held in Uruguay-Argentina pulp mill dispute; Canada's Market Access Strategy Spells out Investment Agenda.

May 2006

• May 31, 2006 (PDF - 51 kb)
  In this issue: Belgian court to hear Poland's challenge to arbitrator Schwebel in Eureko case; Tribunal upholds jurisdiction in Suez's Santa Fe water dispute with Argentina; Czech hospital bill passes as President warns of investment treaty lawsuits; Germany seeks revisions and addition of investor-state arbitration to Pakistan BIT; German Farmers challenge Namibia land reform, international arbitration considered; Claim threatened by Peruvian slot machine manufacturer against Colombia; OECD proposes investment frameworks for governments amidst public criticism.

• May 18, 2006 (PDF - 24 kb)
  In this issue: Occidental files BIT claim against Ecuador at ICSID.

• May 16, 2006 (PDF - 51 kb)
  In this issue: Ecuador moves against Occidental Petroleum contract and assets; Analysis: Foreign investors still in the dark as to terms of Bolivian nationalization; Czech Republic moves to set aside arbitral award in Saluka case; France Télécom latest foreign firm to waive claim against Argentina; UK and Mexico sign investment treaty, following on heels of UK treaty review; Canada-Peru investment agreement nears completion but release of text is in doubt; Canadian lumber firm not abandoning NAFTA suit yet, despite softwood deal; Montreal arbitration conference will examine various investment treaty issues.

April 2006

• April 27, 2006 (PDF - 59 kb)
  In this issue: Tribunal rules on NGO's bid to intervene in second Argentine water dispute; Analysis: "Non-Parties" waking up to investment treaty arbitration; Prominent arbitrator's impartiality questioned in two sports anti-doping arbitrations; US car maker to sue Romania, latest in a string of arbitrations involving Romania; Latvian firm sues Ukraine in ninth (PDF - known) claim to be filed under Energy Charter; Gas Natural and Argentina move cautiously towards a settlement; US pulls plug on Southern Africa talks as investment issue proves intractable.

• April 11, 2006 (PDF - 45 kb)
  In this issue: British investor sues Malaysia over sunken treasure, pleadings posted by ICSID; UK farm group settles BIT claim over Venezuelan land seizures and invasions; Venezuela signs contentious new contracts with foreign oil companies; Tribunal chosen in German firm's UNCITRAL arbitration with Thailand; Tribunal chosen in TV broadcaster's UNCITRAL arbitration with Czech Rep; Japan-Malaysia ink investment rules - arbitrations may go to Kuala Lumpur Centre; Investment Treaty News seeks intern to work as reporter-researcher in Geneva office; DC event on Regulatory Powers and Property Rights: Tension in Latin America.

March 2006

• March 29, 2006 (PDF - 54 kb)
  In this issue: Saluka Investments claims partial victory against the Czech Republic; ANALYSIS: Tribunal distinguishes regulation from expropriation in latest Czech case; ICSID Member-Governments OK watered-down changes to arbitration process; US oil firm loses BIT claim against Trinidad & Tobago; Italians drop human rights claim against Georgia, initiate investment treaty claim; ICSID Committee rejects request for annulment in R.F.C.C. v. Morocco; US and Pakistan struggle to settle differences on investment treaty; Canada, Mexico and US to look at how new FTAs may improve NAFTA practice.

• March 14, 2006 (PDF - 52 kb)
  In this issue: Providing further context for our news stories; Ecuador fails in bid to overturn Occidental award, but appeal in the works; ANALYSIS: Ecuador and its Tax Arbitrations with Occidental and Encana; UK gold mining company moves towards arbitration in dispute with Kyrgyzstan; Chilean chemical firm launches ICSID suit against Bolivia; WTO rules against Mexican taxes at center of NAFTA Chapter 11 cases; Tribunal affirms jurisdiction in Continental Casualty v. Argentina case at ICSID; Investment Treaty News seeks intern to work as reporter-researcher in Geneva office.

• March 2, 2006 (PDF - 55 kb)
  In this issue: Canadian firm Encana loses BIT arbitration with Ecuador over tax refunds; One of two arbitrators disqualified in Pinochet-era expropriation case at ICSID; Vivendi-Argentina Water dispute resumes after unsuccessful jurisdictional challenge; Advisory committee offers environmental report card on US-Peru FTA; US dairy company sues Canada under NAFTA's Chapter 11; Investment Treaty News seeks intern to work as reporter-researcher in Geneva office.

February 2006

• February 17, 2006 (PDF - 47 kb)
  In this issue: Russian investor pursues multiple treaty arbitrations against Moldova in Stockholm; Dutch investor sues over contract lost amidst Czech corruption scandal; ICSID tribunal rejects Italian construction firm's BIT claim against Jordan; Argentina in settlement talks over several BIT arbitrations; China pursues new-style BIT commitments with Germany, replaces 1980s BIT.

January 2006

• January 31, 2006 (PDF - 58 kb)
  In this issue: Polish Finance Ministry not talking about BIT arbitration at ICC; Parties continue to await ICSID ruling on challenge to tribunal in Pey v. Chile case; Contrary to press rumours, foreign energy firms still on arbitration stand-by in Bolivia; Korea loosens local movie screening quota in order to open FTA talks with US; OECD submits policy recommendations for attracting investment, seeks public input; ICSID Secretary General stepping down; UN Development Programme releases discussion paper on investment treaties and Free Trade Agreement investment provisions.

• January 27, 2006 (PDF - 24 kb)
  In this issue: Tribunal rejects NAFTA claims against Mexico in Thunderbird Gaming case.

• January 20, 2006 (PDF - 22 kb)
  In this issue: Bolivian water dispute settled, Bechtel forgoes compensation.

• January 12, 2006 (PDF - 48 kb)
  In this issue: ICC nixes Argentina's bid to disqualify arbitrator in National Grid case; UNCTAD study provides new data on incidence of investment treaty arbitration; Croatia power board files Energy Charter Treaty arbitration against Slovenia; Venezuela dodges arbitration with foreign oil companies; pursues new contracts to preclude arbitration of future disputes; Uruguay surprises with ratification of contentious US investment treaty.

December 2005

• December 20, 2005 (PDF - 21 kb)
  In this issue: Tribunal split in Bechtel-Bolivia case over corporate nationality of investor.

• December 14, 2005 (PDF - 43 kb)
  In this issue: World Bank President will rule on Chile's effort to disqualify tribunal in ICSID case; Lebanon tenders settlement to France Tel after failing to overturn BIT award; Nomura and Czech Republic await decision on liability; Gas Natural suspends case against Argentina, LG&E stays course; Lawyers keep powder dry as Bolivian election looms; Canada-Peru set to sign investment agreement by year's end; Canada budgets new money for foreign investment treaty negotiation and enforcement.

November 2005

• November 21, 2005 (PDF - 48 kb)
  In this issue: Czech Republic pursues shake-up of its bilateral investment treaties; United States and Uruguay ink revised BIT, opposition to treaty remains; U.S.-Thai FTA talks stall on investment chapter; Americas no closer to a hemisphere-wide investment agreement; Canada looks at environmental impact of investment pacts with China, India, Korea; Methanex will not appeal NAFTA arbitration ruling; Business group, union, and NGO weigh in on UPS arbitration against Canada; Czech farmers and environmentalists oppose Mexican investor; Arbitration in wind.

• November 2, 2005 (PDF - 32 kb)
  In this issue: Tribunal hands down jurisdictional ruling in Bechtel-Bolivia arbitration; Kyrgyzstan challenges Energy Charter award in Swedish courts; US District Court rejects investor's request to vacate NAFTA Loewen award; Motorola agrees to drop BIT claim against Turkey; Omani investor files BIT arbitration at ICSID against Yemen; Poland retains law firm to challenge Eureko award in Belgian courts; German construction firm alleges Thailand in breach of BIT; Andean countries divided on posture toward investment in US trade talks.

October 2005

• October 26, 2005 (PDF - 52 kb)
  In this issue: Re-branding this newsletter; Correction: Glamis Gold and mining permits; Romania prevails in BIT arbitration with US investors over privatized steelworks; Argentina moves to annul award in dispute with CMS Company over financial crisis; Belize dodges water suit with UK firm, but arbitration still an option in Tanzania; Euro Commission takes three states to Euro Court of Justice over BITs; UNESCO adopts cultural diversity treaty as legal and policy implications are debated; Canadian Govt responds to demands for human rights monitoring of companies.

• October 4, 2005 (PDF - 52 kb)
  In this issue: A correction on Prof. James Crawford's role in the Eureko v. Poland arbitration; Tribunal accepts bid by native tribe to intervene in Glamis mining arbitration; NAFTA Panel merges three arbitrations between US Govt and Canadian lumber firms; Turkish telecoms firms turn to BIT in dispute with Kazakhstan; Challenge to arbitrator still pending in Argentina dispute with UK investor; UNCTAD World Investment Report offers new info on investment treaties; Pakistan moving toward investment treaty with United States; Dutch seminar to honor IISD Senior Fellow Konrad Von Moltke.

September 2005

• September 15, 2005 (PDF - 67 kb)
  In this issue: Investors in Romanian oil firm warn Romania of potential arbitration; Czech Republic says it prevailed in Swedish Court over GSM cell phone arbitration; Dutch-based steel firm threatens investment treaty claim against Czech Republic; Cargill is fourth company to arbitrate against Mexico over sweetener tax; Egypt-US free trade pact to supersede earlier BIT; Egypt has faced many BIT claims; Divided tribunal finds Polish privatization 'reversal' violates treaty with Netherlands; Amnesty International scrutinizes Exxon's investment pacts with Chad-Cameroon; Geneva event to look at human rights implications of foreign investment governance; Paris event to discuss state entities and international arbitration.

• September 6, 2005 (PDF - 45 kb)
  In this issue: Dutch insurance firm, Eureko, wins investment treaty arbitration with Poland; Czech Republic faces another arbitration over foreign investment in media sector; Czech commission critical of the state's defence of CME arbitration; Conflict on the horizon: Oil companies in Venezuela consider arbitration; Canadian mining firm with suit against Venezuela, threatens claim against Costa Rica; Dutch firm Interbrew withdraws ICSID arbitration against Slovenia; US-Southern Africa negotiations back on track; Criticism leveled at NAFTA Chapter 11 in Canadian Op-Ed article.

August 2005

• August 22, 2005 (PDF - 55 kb)
  In this issue: Tribunal rejects Methanex's compensation claim in key environmental arbitration; US television production company challenges subsidies given to Canadian firms; OECD Investment Committee signals support for more transparency in arbitration; South Centre weighs in again on proposed reforms to ICSID arbitration facility; Uruguayan Senate debates US BIT, looks for common Mercosur posture on BITs; ICSID round-up: five new arbitrations registered in July and August.

• August 3, 2005 (PDF - 45 kb)
  In this issue: India-Singapore FTA inked, investment provisions include important innovations; Cultural protection treaty drafted, relationship to trade and investment pacts indicated; Canada seeks input on environmental impact of proposed pact with Europe; GE/Bechtel cases against India reportedly resolved; Italian firm takes Bangladesh to ICSID in fight over frustrated ICC arbitration; NAFTA's constitutionality upheld by Canadian court, appeal in works; FT: Second Bolivian water dispute creeping towards ICSID; New IISD papers explore global investment governance and "rush to regionalism".

July 2005

• July 13, 2005 (PDF - 40 kb)
  In this issue: Tribunal renders award in Energy Charter dispute against Kyrgyzstan; Chilean firm seeks to annul arbitral decision in Peruvian environmental wetlands case; Energy firms serve Bolivia with notice of investment treaty disputes; Tribunal OKs treaty-shopping for better arbitration options in Gas Natural case; Tribunal affirms jurisdiction in AES arbitration with Argentina; New Zealand-Thai Economic pact offers broad investment rules with some exceptions.

June 2005

• June 30, 2005 (PDF - 39 kb)
  In this issue: Energy firms poised to notify Bolivia of potential investment treaty claims; US and Dutch investors in Estonian railway threaten BIT arbitration; NAFTA consolidation tribunal rejects Mexico's request to merge sweetener disputes; Tribunal hears US request for consolidation of 3 NAFTA forestry investment claims; OECD offers statistics on volume of FDI covered by international treaties; Canadian Parliamentary Committee wants human rights norms for resource firms; WTO members punt proposal to exempt poorest countries from TRIMs Agreement; Canada- European Union conclude first round of investment enhancement talks.

• June 10, 2005 (PDF - 55 kb)
  In this issue: Detailed ICSID amendments tabled, openness pondered, appeals facility nixed; Argentine Bondholders girding for multi-billion dollar investment treaty claim; ICSID tribunal issues pair of jurisdictional decisions in financial crisis arbitrations; NGOs warn on spread of IPRs in investment pacts but disputes slow to arise; EU Constitution votes a set-back for European Commission on investment issue; Canada seeks input on environmental impact of Canada-Peru investment treaty; New text offers comprehensive overview of foreign investment arbitration at ICSID; Edited collection examines research on FDI and development.

May 2005

• May 27, 2005 (PDF - 42 kb)
  In this issue: In Memoriam: Konrad von Moltke; First domino falls on Argentina as tribunal rules in financial crisis arbitration; ICSID tribunal OKs amicus intervention in water case, but hearings to remain closed; Telekom Malaysia and Ghana look to settle UNCITRAL arbitration; Businessman uses Dutch BIT to sue Vietnam for losses; Euro Commission criticizes UK position on developing countries and liberalization; ICSID registers claim by Norweigian firm against Lithuania; Head of Environmental NGO praises outgoing ICSID official on transparency.

• May 5, 2005 (PDF - 36 kb)
  In this issue: Bechtel subsidiary wins arbitration with Indian state of Maharashtra; French insurance firm alleges Cambodia violated investment treaty; Algerian dam construction case lands back on ICSID docket; US firm withdraws case against Argentina, various others still proceeding; Spain and Colombia ink bilateral investment treaty and double taxation treaty; UN Cultural Diversity treaty negotiations to tackle trade/investment treaty relationship; Germany inks bilateral investment treaty with Afghanistan; ICSID to co-host arbitration conference in June.

April 2005

• April 27, 2005 (PDF - 35 kb)
  In this issue: Brazilian government's decision on ratification of BITs looming; IISD to launch model investment agreement in London; Key US Senators want US-Russia BIT ratified before Russia Joins WTO; ICSID rejects challenge to lead arbitrator in Siemens case; Argentina rips decision; Arbitrators appointed by parties in Menatep v. Russia case; Arbitrators announced in Eastern Sugar v. Czech Republic arbitration; Another firm takes Venezuela to ICSID over unpaid debt instruments; Danish shipping company taking Lithuania to ICSID over cancelled privatization bid; Web site launched to house investment treaty arbitration decisions.

• April 8, 2005 (PDF - 37 kb)
  In this issue: Korean officials hint that screen quota reduction may unlock BIT negotiation with US; European Commission ratchets up pressure on members over BITs compatibility; Canada-India bilateral investment treaty to be concluded by year's end; Canadian Bank to sue Argentina under Canada-Argentina BIT; Spanish firm, Gas Natural, drops Argentine claim; Mexico draws line under Feldman case by not appealing to Canadian Supreme Court; INVEST-SD seeking part-time writer to intern with IISD in Geneva; ICSID Deputy Secretary-General Parra to retire, take up visiting academic post.

March 2005

• March 24, 2005 (PDF - 40 kb)
  In this issue: ICSID Tribunals diverge over independence of arbitrator to hear Argentine claims; Tribunal constituted in Glamis Gold v. US NAFTA case, hearings to be open; Ecuador's challenge to arbitral award being weighed in UK High Court; US want three NAFTA softwood lumber arbitrations consolidated under one panel; Wolfowitz could become new ICSID Administrative Council head; Blair Commission for Africa puts focus on good governance; UK Departments urge EU not to force investment talks on Africa, Caribbean and Pacific; Soros urges governments to join Extractives Industry Transparency Initiative.

• March 10, 2005 (PDF - 33 kb)
  In this issue: French multinational wins treaty arbitration against Lebanon; Tribunal finds jurisdiction under Energy Charter, but reins in MFN shopping; South Centre quarrels with ICSID Secretariat's reform proposals; Poland faces new BIT claim by French firm Vivendi; FT: "Enforcement of anti-corruption laws falling short, says watchdog"; Robert Volterra moves to new firm; Czech Republic hires firm to defend claim by Croatian company; Motorola's SEC filings confirm ICSID dispute relates to Telsim matter.

February 2005

• February 22, 2005 (PDF - 30 kb)
  In this issue: Chilean firm loses investment treaty claim against Peru; Menatep's Yukos claim is largest in investment treaty history, others in offing?; Slovak Republic agrees to pay 800 million+ claim; BIICL to host half-day conference on Latin American arbitration; Canada looking for input on trade and investment negotiations with Korea; University of California at Davis to host BIT symposium on March 4.

• February 7, 2005 (PDF - 38 kb)
  In this issue: Civil society groups look for input into Canada-China investment treaty negotiations; IISD seeking comments on draft model investment agreement; Argentine groups make bid to intervene in Aguas Argentinas arbitration; ICSID registers 2 new investment treaty arbitrations; Cemex v. Indonesia arbitration not settled, contrary to earlier reports; Washington event to discuss Most Favored Nation treatment; Institute solicits proposals for human rights impact assessments of investment projects; ICSID releases results of client survey.

January 2005

• January 21, 2005 (PDF - 36 kb)
  In this issue: Slovakia ordered to pay $800 million+ claim by ICSID tribunal; next move unclear; Zimbabwe facing treaty claims arising out of land reform programme; Tribunal rules in Jordan dispute, rejects extension of MFN to cover procedural issues; Second Canadian court declines to overturn NAFTA Feldman v. Mexico decision; Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives publishes list of NAFTA cases.

• January 10, 2005 (PDF - 35 kb)
  In this issue: BIICL, IISD and RIIA to discuss model investment treaty for sustainable development; China reportedly postpones trilateral investment deal with Japan and South Korea; Canadian court to hear constitutional challenge to NAFTA Chapter 11; Stockholm Arbitration Institute planning conference on Energy Charter Treaty; Case commentary published by chief counsel in first Energy Charter Treaty case; Mexican firm, Cemex, reportedly settles ICSID case with Indonesia.

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December 2004

• December 17, 2004 (PDF - 36 kb)
  In this issue: Dutch Court finds arbitrator in conflict due to role of counsel to another investor; IISD submits proposals on ICSID reform; European Banks move to BIT arbitration against India in Dabhol dispute; US releases final draft of model investment treaty; Trade Ambassador Zoellick goes to South Africa to revive US-SACU talks; University of Toronto study finds declining US investment in Canada, post-NAFTA.

November 2004

• November 29, 2004 (PDF - 37 kb)
  In this issue: UNCTAD Releases Data on Incidence of Investment Treaty Arbitration; US Government mounts arbitration against India over failed power plant project; Tribunal rejects NAFTA claims of US shareholder in Mexican sugar firm; US announces investment negotiations with Oman and U.A.E.; World Bank's Global Economic Prospects report warns on investment treaties; IISD releases papers exploring investment, trade and sustainable development; US reinsurance firm mounts BIT claim against Argentina; Investor seeks annulment of ICSID award in case against United Arab Emirates; Book on Investment Rules and Sustainable Development Now Available.

• November 18, 2004 (PDF - 47 kb)
  In this issue: Canada negotiating BITs with China, India and Peru; US-Uruguay BIT text released; new Uruguayan govt may review text; Canada, Chile announce commitment to transparency in investment arbitrations; Jilted Yukos shareholders turn to Energy Charter Treaty arbitration; South Africa signs BIT with Israel; OECD releases several secretariat papers on investment treaty rules; British Institute's Investment Treaty Forum seeks International Economic Law Fellow; Annual Geneva Global Arbitration Forum slated for December 1-2.

October 2004

• October 27, 2004 (PDF - 47 kb)
  In this issue: ICSID Secretariat floats proposals for reforms to investor-state arbitration; BIT award against Russia being challenged in Swedish appeal court; EU-Mercosur talks put on backburner til next year; Transparency International releases annual index on perception of corruption.

• October 13, 2004 (PDF - 37 kb)
  In this issue: Canada-European Union reach deal to amend six investment treaties; Aggrieved investors urge US to deny FTA to Peru, Ecuador; New US ambassador to Korea reiterates obstacles to BIT; Tribunal upholds jurisdiction in investment treaty claim against Turkey; Iranian Parliament claims right to overturn foreign investment contracts; Mexico faces three new treaty claims under BITs, NAFTA; ICSID/AAA/ICC to hold Paris conference on international arbitration.

• October 1, 2004 (PDF - 32 kb)
  In this issue: Ecuador faces another claim, Attorney-General reportedly decries 'abuse' of US BIT; India pleads difficulty in finding law firm to defend GE-Bechtel treaty claim; Croatian firm invokes investment treaty to challenge Czech eviction notice; Champion Trading treaty claim against Egypt proceeds in part; Mexico, China BIT negotiation to begin this month; New York Times editorial criticizes international arbitration.

September 2004

• September 24, 2004 (PDF - 39 kb)
  In this issue: Japan, Mexico agree to investment rules in new trade pact; US inks Trade-Investment Framework with Afghanistan; UNCTAD releases World Investment Report 2004 on services; ICSID tribunal buries NAFTA funeral home claim; UK mining firm loses investment treaty claim against Egypt.

• September 8, 2004 (PDF - 25 kb)
  In this issue: Ecuador challenges arbitral award, threatens to sever contract, facing second claim; US water rights-holders sue Mexico under NAFTA; France Telecom and Interbrew launch new treaty claims at ICSID; Arbitration begins in Polish insurance dispute - seventh treaty claim against Poland; Second edition of International Law of Foreign Investment released; Activist groups launch web portal to scrutinize bilateral economic treaties.

August 2004

• August 23, 2004 (PDF - 68 kb)
  In this issue: Malaysian firm wins BIT case against Chile; "wide scope" of MFN clause looms large; Tribunal upholds jurisdiction in Siemens v. Argentina; MFN plays procedural role; Tribunal dismisses BIT suit against United Arab Emirates on grounds of nationality; British Institute's Investment Treaty Forum to host conference Sept.10; Briefing paper analyzes Intellectual Property Rights rules in investment treaties; OECD to Host Global Forum on Investment in India from Nov.19-21.

• August 14, 2004 (PDF - 65 kb)
  In this issue: Canadian cattle ranchers invoke NAFTA to challenge US cattle ban; Norwegian mobile telecoms firm turns to ICSID in tussle with Hungary; Tribunal hands down second jurisdictional decision in Enron claim at ICSID; Mobil sees treaty claim registered at ICSID; Web site launched to house investment treaty arbitral awards; Investment officially jettisoned from WTO's Doha Round; IISD investment report now available in Spanish; Canadian Think-Tank Says Canada Needs to Overhauls Foreign Investment Rules.

July 2004

• July 22, 2004 (PDF - 67 kb)
  In this issue: INVEST-SD Moving North; NAFTA Parties Release Draft Negotiating Texts of Investment Chapter; IISD and Earth Justice submit Post-Hearing brief following Methanex Hearings; Canadian Mining Firm Launches Arbitration Against Venezuela; NGOs Call for World Bank Moratorium on Natural Resources Financing; US- Southern Africa Negotiations Stall; Race-based Affirmative Action an Obstacle?

• July 16, 2004 (PDF - 64 kb)
  In this issue: Occidental Wins Investment Arbitration Against Ecuador; Ecuador Vows "Appeal"; Enron case at ICSID in partial abeyance; one claim still proceeding; Cargill Challenges Polish Agricultural Quotas at ICSID; Head of NAFTA Arbitration Division Moves Back to Private Sector.

• July 2, 2004 (PDF - 70 kb)
  In this issue: Chairman of Tribunal Resigns After Dissenting in Investment Arbitration; Canadian Province Rejects Public Auto Insurance; Think-Tank Sees Treaty Chill; UK-based firm pursues Energy Charter Treaty claim against Kyrgyzstan; Latvia to Honor Energy Charter Treaty Award; US Supreme Court Upholds "Alien Torts" Suits Targeting Corporations.

June 2004

• June 21, 2004 (PDF - 58 kb)
  In this issue: World Bank management responds to external review of WB role in extractives sector; OECD working paper looks at relationships between Investment Agreements; UN Sets Up Investment Treaty Search Engine; UNCTAD touts signing of further investment treaties in Brazil; FT: India signals that it will review foreign investment limits; ICSID sees new investment treaty case against Egypt; Arbitration lawyers offer guide to 'navigating through investor-state arbitrations'.

• June 11, 2004 (PDF - 61 kb)
  In This Issue: Clarification on Aboriginals and Canada's investment treaties; Methanex arbitration proceeding; Open to the Washington public; Tribunal rejects Waste Management's NAFTA claims; ICSID Tribunal splits sharply over question of corporate nationality; IISD releases new report on investment agreements and sustainable development.

May 2004

• May 24, 2004 (PDF - 73 kb)
  In this issue: US Launches BIT negotiation with Uruguay; Pakistan Next in Queue?; EU Executive Branch Looking at Possible Incompatibilities of Some European BITs; Canada Releases its Revised Model Investment Treaty; Disputes to be Open; Argentine Government Lawyer Moves to Private Practice; OECD and APEC Convene First Seminar on Investment Flows and Treaties; NYT: Angola will reveal payments from Chevron; Energy Charter Secretariat Seeks Legal Advisor.

• May 11, 2004 (PDF - 73 kb)
  In this issue: International Treaty Implications Color Canadian Province's Debate over Public Auto Insurance; Swiss Firm Concedes Corruption Allegations, Abandons Treaty Arbitration Against Pakistan; New Tribunal Constituted in Long-Running Vivendi-Argentina Water Dispute; Investment Treaty Dispute with Morocco Heading to Annulment Phase; India Reportedly Looking to Narrow Reach of Investment Treaty Provisions; UN Agency Releases Upbeat Assessment of Future FDI Patterns; UK Think Tank Publishes Trade/Investment Conference Materials On-line.

April 2004

• April 27, 2004 (PDF - 63 kb)
  In this issue: Constitutionality of NAFTA Ch.11-type Provisions Being Debated in US and Canada; Canadian Lumber Firm Becomes Fourth in Industry to Sue US Under NAFTA; Canadian Firm Hopes to Challenge US Tobacco Settlement through NAFTA; Services Industry Offers Assessment of US-Morocco Investment Provisions.

• April 13, 2004 (PDF - 69 kb)
  In this issue: Methanex Tribunal Accepts Two Amicus Briefs; Investors Looking Beyond ICSID in Investment Treaty Telecoms Cases; British Institute to Hold Conference on Appeals of Treaty Arbitrations; UN Human Rights Commission Handed Hot Potato on Corporate Responsibility.

• April 5, 2004 (PDF - 60 kb)
  In this issue: OECD Group Calls in Outside Legal Experts to Review Key Investment Rules; US-Pakistan Slated to Negotiate Investment Treaty this Month; Latvia Could See Two New Treaty Arbitrations, Reflects on Two Earlier Losses; FT: Banks expected to oppose call for WB to get out of oil and coal financing; Investment Arbitration Event Scheduled for May 3 in Paris.

March 2004

• March 25, 2004 (PDF - 63 kb)
  In this issue: Tribunal Finds Jurisdiction to Hear Enron Claim Against Argentina; Italian Firm Sues Mongolia under BIT and Energy Charter Treaty; EU-Canada discuss revisions to investment treaties, and new talks on broader pact; US-Colombia FTA Talks to Begin in May, Andean Neighbours Could Join; NY Times: Internal World Bank Report Urges Withdrawal from Funding Oil and Coal Projects.

• March 15, 2004 (PDF - 67 kb)
  In this issue: Amicus briefs submitted to NAFTA Methanex Tribunal, and available on-line; Occidental BIT arbitration against Ecuador confirmed; Dutch Insurer Pursues Treaty Arbitration in Privatization Dispute with Poland; Advisory Committee Members Differ on US Draft Model BIT; Environment, Development and Labour Groups Criticize US Draft Model BIT; NY Times: Venezuelan State Oil Company Looks to Become Social Spending Powerhouse.

• March 5, 2004 (PDF - 63 kb)
  In this issue: ICSID registers five investor-state arbitrations in February; Korea-Chile FTA enters into force; contains significant investment commitments; Bush admin releases annual trade policy report, sets out goals for 2004; Investment disputes play role in US review of Andean trade preferences; US-Australia FTA text now available on-line; Conference Board of Canada releases report on FDI and tax policy.

February 2004

• February 23, 2004 (PDF - 59 kb)
  In this issue: US releases draft-text of revised bilateral investment treaty template; US firm mounts BIT claim against Ukraine for failure to enforce arbitral award; London think-tank to discuss briefing paper on UK BITs on Wed Feb 25th.; Washington conference to examine NAFTA Chapter 11 and launch book; Cambridge University to Host Symposium on International Economic Disputes; NY Times profiles Chad's spending of World Bank-supervised oil revenues.

• February 16, 2004 (PDF - 71 kb)
  In this issue: Investment Treaty Tribunal Looks Under the Umbrella; UNCTAD Adds to its Series on Issues in International Investment Agreements; NY Times: Foreign Investors Souring on Ecuador's Oil Sector; Australia-US FTA Sets Precedent With Lack of Investor-State Dispute Mechanism; Bush Admin Sets Process in Motion to Amend BITs with Eastern and Central Europe.

• February 6, 2004 (PDF - 60 kb)
  In this issue: On-line archive of INVEST-SD News Bulletins redesigned; US-Central America FTA draft text published; contains MFN limitations; Cement firm launches arbitration against Indonesia under contract, ASEAN Treaty; French water and energy firms mount treaty arbitrations against Argentina at ICSID.

• February 3, 2004 (PDF - 55 kb)
  In this issue: Methanex Tribunal Sets Out Guidelines for Amicus Curiae Submissions.

January 2004

• January 23, 2004 (PDF - 72 kb)
  In this issue: Concerns Grow Over Pharmaceutical Pricing in US-Australia FTA Talks; Korean-US Bilateral Investment Treaty Talks to Resume After Korean Elections; UK Development Agency Wants Binding International Corporate Responsibilities; Angola Reported to have Misplaced More Than $4 Billion in Oil Revenues; Investor Loses Investment Treaty Case Against Morocco.

• January 16, 2004 (PDF - 79 kb)
  In this issue: US signals desire for investment to be dropped from WTO's Doha Round; Australia-US Negotiations at final stage; Australia-Thailand FTA ready for signature; Canadian Court dismisses judicial review of NAFTA SD Myers decision; Investor in Manila investment arbitration at center of twin corruption investigations; US Business Head Challenges Stiglitz Characterization of NAFTA Investment rules.

• January 5, 2004 (PDF - 78 kb)
  In this issue: World Bank arbitration facility sees another record year of investor-state claims; Early investment arbitrations against "improper" use of environmental laws uncovered; Loewen NAFTA arbitration against the United States not fully resolved; Investment treaty negotiation round-up; Updated list of US bilateral investment treaties available on-line.

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December 2003

• December 19, 2003 (PDF - 75 kb)
  In this issue: Swedish firm wins Energy Charter Treaty case against Republic of Latvia; Azurix water company registers second Argentine claim, as first claim clears jurisdictional hurdle; ICSID Tribunal declines to halt investor arbitration in deference to State-to-State arbitration; Lawyers argue that Canadians excluded from Iraq contracts could sue under NAFTA; Countries differ over proposals to kick investment out of the WTO Doha Round; US announces conclusion of Central American talks, but Costa Rica calls a time-out.

• December 8, 2003 (PDF - 76 kb)
  In this issue: New Japanese investment treaties pursue liberalization, in addition to protection; Germany signs updated BIT with China; US-Australia trade and investment negotiations go into overtime; Canadian court declines to set aside award in NAFTA Feldman arbitration; ICSID registers another BIT claim; Environmental NGO issues analysis on minimum standard of treatment.

November 2003

• November 28, 2003 (PDF - 84 kb)
  In this issue: Stockholm arbitrators expected to rule soon on Energy Charter Treaty arbitration; EU confirms new position on investment at WTO; US and Australian Ministers meet to discuss toughest issues in FTA talks; Pipeline project continues to attract funding and controversy; US Ambassador calls for Korea to abandon film quota; PM promises to keep talking; Author William Greider criticizes inclusion of investment in international trade negotiations.

• November 24, 2003 (PDF - 69 kb)
  In this issue: Extent of investment rules in Pan-American pact still to be determined; Canada has no immediate plans to open up new bilateral investment talks; WTO struggles to determine place of investment in Doha Round; IISD-CIEL release results of investment discussions in Miami; London event will look at investment treaty arbitration in East Asia; Tufts University: FDI not contributing to sustainable industrial development in Mexico.

• November 14, 2003 (PDF - 70 kb)
  In this issue: India faces 6 new investment treaty claims in relation to Dabhol investment; On eve of FTAA summit, place for investment rules still unclear; Risk consultancy looks at challenges to FDI in Post-September 11th security climate.

• November 7, 2003 (PDF - 79 kb)
  In this issue: Registration deadline for Miami FTAA Ministerial conference and side-events; Investment issue remains a stumbling block to Pan-American trade pact; Korea signals it may abandon cultural policy in order to obtain US investment treaty; Europe weighs a push for WTO investment talks on a plurilateral basis; McKinsey consulting firm issues report on FDI's impact on developing countries; Key US senator calls for investment appellate body in Central America trade pact.

October 2003

• October 31, 2003 (PDF - 69 kb)
  In this issue: ICSID sees further investor-state arbitrations registered; Swiss Arbitration Forum to examine conflicting investment treaty awards; NGOs issue briefing note on Glamis mining corp's NAFTA claim against US; Ruling in GE/Bechtel vs. OPIC arbitration now publicly available; WTO members set to consult informally on future of investment talks; Ecuadorian environmental lawsuit against Chevron-Texaco could have teeth in US; Lawyers cast doubt on legality of Iraq's new foreign investment law.

• October 24, 2003 (PDF - 56 kb)
  In this issue: World Bank economist's paper on BITs and FDI flows now available online; Mexico develops investment Web site to house treaties and information about disputes; OECD to host forum on improved government transparency for investment; Seminar to explore use of court injunctions to thwart arbitrations.

• October 20, 2003 (PDF - 73 kb)
  In this issue: New European Constitution would bring FDI under European competence; Investment negotiations proceed on many levels in Asia; Archers Daniels Midland files notice of intent to sue Mexico under NAFTA Chapter 11; ICSID registers two new bilateral investment treaty claims.

• October 11, 2003 (PDF - 61 kb)
  In this issue: SD Myers arbitral award set for judicial review in Canada; UK investor loses BIT case against Czech Republic; Argentine Congress to allow utility rate hikes, impact on arbitrations unclear; Oil, gas and energy law intelligence service launched.

• October 8, 2003 (PDF - 66 kb)
  In this Issue: EU insists investment is not off the WTO agenda; NAFTA Ministers issue statements, guidance on several aspects of arbitration; Transparency International ranks governments on perceived corruption; ASEAN bloc pursues deeper economic integration in order to compete with China on FDI; US oil company won damages in previously unreported 1999 investment treaty claim against Kazakhstan

September 2003

• September 26, 2003 (PDF - 67 kb)
  In this issue: Iraq's New Investment Law Opens Most of Economy to Foreign Investment; Report on Canada's NAFTA Chapter 11 consultations available; Bechtel and GE mount billion dollar investment treaty claim against India; Tribunal chosen to hear dispute over Peruvian environmental preserve.

• September 19, 2003 (PDF - 66 kb)
  In this issue: EU-US agree to alter US BITs with EU accession candidates; US businesses worry about Brazil's lack of ambition in FTAA investment talks; Argentina faces treaty claim launched under UNCITRAL rules; Washington DC, colloquium to discuss international arbitration topics; in November; International law newsletter highlights investor-state disputes; Newsletter looks at investment arbitration under Singapore-Australia free trade treaty.

• September 14, 2003 (PDF - 51 kb)
  In this issue: Singapore Issues breaks Cancun's back.

• September 11, 2003 (PDF - 52 kb)
  In this issue: Regular Reports from WTO Ministerial Conference in Cancun; Countries Remain Far Apart on Investment two days into WTO Summit.

• September 5, 2003 (PDF - 56 kb)
  In this issue: UNCTAD world investment report 2003 charts another decline in FDI flows; New ICSID cases registered against Argentina and Bulgaria; Reminder: Cancun Workshop to discuss investment and sustainable development; International Bar Association conference includes various investment workshops.

• September 2, 2003 (PDF - 77 kb)
  In this issue: The US position on investor-state arbitration at WTO; Cancun Workshop to discuss investment and sustainable development; WTO draft declaration leaves fate of investment pact up to Ministers in Cancun; UNCTAD releases latest figures on investment liberalization & protection efforts; Czech parliament sets up inquiry of investment dispute - tallies its losses; Fireman's Fund NAFTA expropriation claim against Mexico to proceed on merits.

August 2003

• August 15-22, 2003 (PDF - 82 kb)
  In this issue: Editor's Note on Delayed Publication; WTO Investment Group Fails to Find Consensus; African group and West remain at odds; Liberalization of capital flows a long-standing US trade policy; Business groups debate impact of investment pact on existing WTO rules on services; US Senate approve FTAs with Chile and Singapore; Canadian mining firm pursuing NAFTA arbitration against US Government.

• August 1, 2003 (PDF - 64 kb)
  In this issue: Path Cleared for First Challenge to Argentine Emergency Laws to be Heard on Merits; Vivendi Will Resubmit Argentine Water Claim, Following Recent ICSID Decision; India Standing Firm Against WTO Investment Pact; Links Arms with China in Opposition; Financial Times Readers continue to Joust over WTO Investment Pact.

July 2003

• July 8, 2003 (PDF - 21 kb)
  In this issue: US Pressures Korea to Drop Cultural Policy in Return for Bilateral Investment Treaty; South Africa's Black Economic Empowerment Plans an Obstacle to a US FTA?; Financial Times Op-Ed Opposes Launch of WTO Investment Agreement; Key Business Groups Hail NAFTA's Chapter 11 in Op-Ed.

• July 11, 2003 (PDF - 29 kb)
  In this issue: UN Human Development Report Highlights Investment Needs of Poorest Nations; Japan Pursuing a Bevy of Bilateral Trade & Investment Agreements; Int'l Chamber of Commerce Responds to Criticism of WTO Investment Pact; Reisman Lecture on "International Law on Foreign Investment" Now Available; Lawyer Moots Investment Arbitration as Potential Window for Making WTO Claims.

• July 18, 2003 (PDF - 30 kb)
  In this issue: Countries Still Split Over WTO Investment Talks; Rumblings of Discontent in UK Gov't; FTAA Investment Talks to be Scaled Down?; US FTAs with Chile and Singapore Reviewed by Congress; USTR Secrecy Condemned; Oxfam Fears Impact of WTO Investment Rules on Extractive Investments; Canada's "National" Newspaper Examines Recent Loewen Award.

• July 25, 2003 (PDF - 22 kb)
  In this issue: Suez Water Company Mounts Three ICSID Arbitrations Against Argentina; EU Criticizes WTO Declaration on Investment; Links Ag Sacrifices to Investment Gains; World Bank Releases Research Note on Proposed WTO Investment Talks; UNCITRAL Session Discusses Rules for Private Infrastructure Projects.

June 2003

• June 1, 2003 (PDF - 23 kb)
  In this issue: Brazil Remains Wary of International Investment Rules; "Publish What You Pay" Campaign Receives Shot in the Arm; India-based Research Organization Releases Paper on WTO Investment Agreement; Report Ponders the Future of US Overseas Private Investment Corporation; 5. Canadian Think-Tank Issues Updated List of NAFTA Chapter 11 Disputes.

• June 6, 2003 (PDF - 28 kb)
  In this issue: Mexico's Treatment of Hazardous Waste Site Violates Mexico-Spain BIT; Notice of Intent in First Known NAFTA Chapter 11 Claim Finally Made Public; Holders of Terminated Iraqi Oil Contracts Explore Arbitration; Least-Developed Countries Oppose WTO Investment Negotiations; Canadian Human Rights Organization to Hold Think-Tank on International Investment.

• June 13, 2003 (PDF - 28 kb)
  In this issue: World Bank Facility Seeing Record Number of Investment Treaty Arbitration Claims; BIT Cases going to Swedish Arbitration Institute - Volume and Details Remain Elusive; US Resists EU Demands that Investment Treaties be Altered; WTO Working Group's Final Session on Investment Stalemated on Launch of MAI.

• June 20, 2003 (PDF - 27 kb)
  In this issue: Tobacco Treaty Opened for Signature - Trade and Investment Links Remain Vague; US Senate Looking to Ban MTBE - Substance at Center of NAFTA dispute; NAFTA Tribunal in Feldman Case Won't Revisit Ruling - Headed for Court Review?; Enron's Investment in Indian Power Plant Still Embroiled in Legal Battles.

• June 27, 2003 (PDF - 25 kb)
  In this issue: NAFTA Tribunal Dismisses Loewen Claim Against United States; Dutch Investor Threatens Treaty Claim Against Czechs For Environmental Damage; In Nod to Foreign Investors, Malaysia Drops Affirmative Action for Ethnic Malays; Geneva, Brussels Briefing Sessions to Discuss WTO and Investment This Week.

May 2003

• May 9, 2003 (PDF - 27 kb)
  In this issue: US Administration Warns WTO on Inviolability of its Bilateral Investment Treaties; Carnegie Endowment to Host One-Day Forum on WTO Investment Talks; Camuzzi Files Second Investment Treaty Claim Against Argentina; South Africa's Plans for Black Economic Empowerment Confronting Foreign Investor Rights.

• May 16, 2003 (PDF - 21 kb)
  In this issue: Swedish Court Affirms Award Against Czech Republic; Damages Could be Taxable; Hungary to Host Symposium on Central-Eastern European Arbitration; Civil Society Groups Launch Website Opposed to WTO Investment Negotiations; Development Organizations Release Paper Critical of WTO Investment Agreement.

• May 23, 2003 (PDF - 40 kb)
  In this issue: Human Rights Body Intercedes to Protect Indigenous Group Opposed to Oil Exploration; Amnesty International Calling for Changes to Turkish Pipeline Agreement; Texas Conference on "Private Investments Abroad" and Mock Arbitration; Key Business Group Wary of WTO Investment Talks; Oxfam International Releases Briefing Paper on Investment and WTO.

April 2003

• April 11, 2003 (PDF - 28 kb)
  In this issue: WTO Working Group on Trade and Investment to Meet Next Week; Asia-Pacific Region Investment Negotiations Round-Up; Methanex Arbitration Under NAFTA to be Opened to Public; Investors Emboldened by Arbitral Verdict Against Czech Republic; ICSID Sees Two New Treaty Arbitrations.

• April 18, 2003 (PDF - 23 kb)
  In this issue: Research Note on Emerging BIT Cases; Up-Front Costs Incurred by Foreign Investors Not Arbitrable at ICSID; WTO Working Group Sees Further Submissions, One More Meeting Before Cancun; Canadian Think-Tank Condemns Canada's FTAA Offers.

• April 25, 2003 (PDF - 36 kb)
  In this issue: Int'l Chamber of Commerce Issues Expectations for WTO Investment Agreement; US-Chile FTA Text Released; Signature Delayed by Chile's Opposition to War; German Conference to Discuss Alternatives to WTO Investment Agreement; Firm Embroiled in Bolivia Water Dispute Wins Major Iraq Contract; Another Energy Charter Treaty Case Sent to ICSID; Overview of NAFTA Case Law on Regulatory Measures; NYU Conference on Regulatory Expropriations Video Now Available Online.

• March 2003 (PDF - 230 kb)

• February 2003 (PDF - 202 kb)

• January 2003 (PDF - 280 kb)

• December 2002 (PDF - 218 kb)

• November 2002 (PDF - 249 kb)

• October 2002 (PDF - 108 kb)

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